HSBC Building, Ipoh
OPEN FOR PUBLIC. SOME AREAS MAY BE PROHIBITED.
CHARGES MAY APPLY FOR SOME AREAS OR ACTIVITIES.
A colonial-era grandeur and architectural finesse. Completed in 1931, this four-storey edifice was designed by Denis Santry of the renowned Singapore-based architectural firm Swan & Maclaren, the same firm behind the iconic Raffles Hotel in Singapore. The building showcases a Neo-Renaissance style, characterized by its harmonious proportions and elegant lines, reflecting the architectural ideals of the early 20th century.
Strategically located at the corner of Jalan Sultan Yusuf and Jalan Tun Sambanthan, the HSBC Building was the tallest structure in Ipoh during the pre-independence era, symbolizing the city's rapid growth fueled by the tin mining boom. Its facade, finished in artificial granite and the banking hall adorned with Italian marble, exude a sense of permanence and prosperity.
The building's architectural significance is further highlighted by its classical tripartite division: a solid arcaded base, a prominent piano nobile (main storey) defined by a series of bays and an attic level accentuated by double cornices enclosing a row of panel windows. The main entrance features a scooped-out loggia and Giant Orders topped by a galleried cupola, adding a rounded dimension to the structure.
Beyond its architectural merits, the HSBC Building holds historical significance. It was officially opened by the Sultan of Perak on 31 October 1931, marking a milestone in Ipoh's development as a commercial hub. Today, it remains a functioning bank and a prominent landmark on the Ipoh Heritage Trail, inviting visitors to explore the city's rich colonial past.
For those interested in experiencing this architectural gem firsthand, the HSBC Building is easily accessible and continues to be a focal point in Ipoh's vibrant historical landscape.
